Feature Story

Imagine a diner that blends rich flavor with even richer history, and you’ll find the essence of Mert’s Heart & Soul.

Founded in 1998 by James Bazzelle, Mert’s is now one of Uptown Charlotte’s most beloved restaurants. But its rise to success wasn’t without challenges. Bazzelle, who grew up in Georgia and earned a degree in Food Service Management from the Vocational College of Athens, spent years learning the ropes of the restaurant industry.

“Food has always been a big part of my life,” Bazzelle shared. “I wanted to create a place where people could enjoy the food I grew up on while adding my own twist to it.”

After meeting his wife, Renee, in 1979, the two began their culinary journey together. They opened a catering business and a restaurant before finally deciding to launch Mert’s Heart & Soul in 1998. The couple chose a small unit off College Street, just down the road from what is now the Spectrum Center.

When Mert’s first opened, customers were hesitant about its unique approach.

“We didn’t serve fried food at first, and that threw people off,” Bazzelle admitted with a laugh. “But I listened to what they wanted and adjusted. That’s how we came to serve what people now call real southern soul food.”

Bazzelle added fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and other classic southern dishes to the menu. One of his most significant innovations, though, was offering cornbread with every meal.

“I never thought the cornbread would become such a big deal,” he said. “But people kept coming back for it, and that’s when I realized we were onto something.”

Incorporating influences from South Carolina’s Low Country and Gullah culture, Bazzelle also added dishes like shrimp and grits and Charleston Red Rice, which have become fan favorites. Last year, Mert’s was featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives with Guy Fieri, earning rave reviews and a surge in popularity.

Walking into Mert’s is like stepping into a time capsule. The walls are adorned with decorations that carry personal meaning to the Bazzelle family.

“Everything here has a story,” Bazzelle said. “If you look closely, you’ll even find Shaquille O’Neal’s autograph somewhere on the wall.”

During a recent visit, the restaurant was bustling with energy, yet the staff handled the crowd with ease. My server, a young woman who exudes warmth and efficiency, spoke glowingly about her workplace.

“It’s truly a wonderful place to work,” she said. “The free cornbread definitely sweetens the deal, though!”

Customer Amelia Baskin also shared her thoughts. “The Soul Rolls are my favorite,” she said, referring to Mert’s signature southern twist on egg rolls. “I don’t even know what’s in them, but the flavors are just so comforting and unique.”

The menu at Mert’s offers a wide array of options, making it hard to choose for a first-timer. I started with the Soul Sampler, which included cornbread, salmon cake, chicken wings, and an egg roll. For my entrée, I opted for shrimp and grits, served with toasted focaccia. To finish the meal, I indulged in a slice of chocolate cake from the Blushing Bake Shop.

As promised, the cornbread stole the show. Light, fluffy, and slightly sweet, it’s a dish that lives up to the hype.

“The cornbread is definitely our star,” Bazzelle said. “It’s simple, but it represents everything we stand for—comfort, quality, and tradition.”

Mert’s Heart & Soul has become a cornerstone of Charlotte’s dining scene, offering a space where both locals and visitors can experience the warmth of southern soul food.

“For me, it’s about more than the food,” Bazzelle said. “It’s about bringing people together, sharing stories, and creating memories.”

Whether you’re a fan of classic southern flavors or looking to try something new, Mert’s is a must-visit. And if you take one piece of advice, make sure to try the cornbread—you won’t regret it.